FOXBORO — The Patriots’ wide receiver room just got a little more crowded.
Wide receiver Mack Hollins participated in Thursday’s walk-through, meaning he’s been activated off of the physically unable to perform list. Hollins didn’t practice during the spring and was held out of the first week-plus of training camp sessions.
The 31-year-old journeyman veteran signed a two-year, $8.4 million contract as a free agent with the Patriots this offseason. He’s viewed as a roster lock since his deal comes with $3.5 million in guarantees.
Hollins will battle for a starting role alongside Stefon Diggs and DeMario Douglas. His top competition includes Kayshon Boutte, Kyle Williams and Kendrick Bourne. Wide receivers Javon Baker, Efton Chism, John Jiles and Jeremiah Webb are competing for roster spots.
Hollins is entering his ninth NFL season. He’s spent time with the Eagles, Dolphins, Raiders, Falcons and Bills. He played under current Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels during his season with the Raiders. It was Hollins’ career year with 690 receiving yards, 57 catches and four touchdowns.
In 112 career games, Hollins has 40 starts. He has 162 catches, 2,069 yards and 15 touchdowns over seven seasons.
Boutte has been the Patriots’ starting “X” wide receiver, but Hollins could take his place given his NFL experience, especially within McDaniels’ system.
During Thursday’s walk-through, Hollins was immediately lined up in the first-team offense along with Diggs and Douglas.
Hollins is also an experienced special teams coverage player with 1,186 career snaps and 28 tackles under his belt.
Originally Published:
